Chattanooga, TN — A high-speed pursuit through Chattanooga ended in tragedy Friday after police officers fatally shot a suspect who led them on a dangerous chase, rammed multiple vehicles, and struck an officer in a final attempt to escape.
According to Chattanooga Police Chief Jonathon Chambers, the incident began when officers attempted to apprehend a suspect wanted in connection with previous criminal activity. The suspect, whose name has not yet been released pending family notification, fled at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour, initiating a chaotic pursuit through city streets.
Chief Chambers said the suspect “showed a blatant disregard for public safety,” weaving through traffic, running red lights, and putting countless motorists and pedestrians at risk. As the chase progressed, the suspect’s vehicle became temporarily trapped in congested traffic. In a desperate bid to escape, the suspect rammed the vehicles ahead of him, then reversed and rammed them again, creating chaos on the roadway.
“Rather than surrender, the suspect continued to endanger innocent lives, intentionally striking occupied vehicles multiple times,” Chambers said during a press briefing.
Eventually, the vehicle became disabled after mounting a curb. Officers moved in to bring the pursuit to an end. According to police, as they approached, the suspect suddenly accelerated forward, striking an officer with the vehicle. That’s when officers opened fire, fatally shooting the suspect.
Emergency medical personnel responded quickly, but the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. The officer who was struck by the vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to make a full recovery.
Police confirmed that a firearm was recovered from the suspect’s vehicle, though it is unclear whether it was brandished during the encounter.
Chambers emphasized the split-second decisions officers were forced to make during a rapidly evolving and dangerous situation. “This is not the outcome we ever want,” he said. “But when someone actively endangers the lives of the public and our officers, we are compelled to act to protect others.”
A photo from a prior arrest of the suspect has been circulated as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are reviewing body camera footage and collecting witness statements as part of a standard protocol following an officer-involved shooting.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has taken over the investigation, as is customary in such incidents. The officers involved have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Community members have expressed concern over the violence and disruption caused by the pursuit. Local leaders are urging patience and calm as more details emerge.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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